Area Clean Cities Honors DC Biodiesel Champions

WASHINGTON - The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) today honored three biodiesel leaders from the Washington region for their commitment to reducing petroleum consumption through the use of alternative fuels.

The GWRCCC recognized William Howland, Director, DC Department of Public Works; Timothy Fitzgerald, Fleet Director, DC Water; and Christopher O'Brien, Director of Sustainability, American University during their 2nd Annual Awards Luncheon at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Crystal City, VA.

“Each of these individuals has demonstrated a strong commitment to biodiesel, and their efforts are helping to reduce harmful emissions and protect our environment,” said Steven J. Levy, National Biodiesel Board Chairman. “The biodiesel industry is grateful for their leadership in the nation’s Capital where they serve as role models for a clean energy future.”

The winners were honored in the following three categories:

Member of the Year Award: William Howland, Director, DC Department of Public Works

The Most Visionary Professional (MVP): Timothy Fitzgerald, Fleet Director, DC Water

Sustainability Award (University): Christopher O'Brien, Director of Sustainability at American University

The National Biodiesel Board is the national trade association representing America’s first Advanced Biofuel. Biodiesel – made from a variety of resources including soybean oil, recycled cooking oil and animal fats – is the first EPA-designated Advanced Biofuel to reach commercial-scale production nationwide. With plants in nearly every state in the country, the industry had a record U.S. market last year of nearly 1.8 billion gallons. For more information, visit www.biodiesel.org.

For more about GWRCCC and the other honorees at today’s awards luncheon, visit www.gwrccc.org.